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Rainy Day Blues

by Dr. Jennifer Bennett

We have been fortunate this year to have had a rather warm spring with some days in the 70s and plenty of sun.  Usually those of us who live in the Pacific Northwest are used to summer starting after July 4th.  It seems though that these next few weeks before the 4th will bring us that rain and gloom that we are so used to seeing 9 months out of the year.  In preparation for our post-solstice summer days and to help us get through the last couple weeks of rain and 50 degree weather, here are a couple of tips to keep our heads up while the rain comes down.

Light Therapy

Although we live at a high latitude and the sun doesn’t set until after 9pm when our long days are at their peak, it doesn’t necessarily matter for our mood, as the day is covered with a dim grey all day with no recognition of our long “sunny” days.  Fortunately, light therapy can help us get through the dark days and dim early mornings.  Light therapy can be incorporated easily by purchasing a full spectrum light bulb at your local supply store and using it in your main rooms like the bedroom or bathroom.  These types of lights can help your body feel more awake in the morning or during the day as they help stimulate the hormones that are produced when you wake up in the morning.

Exercise

It can be challenging to get the motivation to exercise when it’s drizzly and cold outside, but exercise can be very helpful to help increase our energy during the day and boost our mood and mental focus.  Exercise can increase endorphins (the hormones that make us feel good), decrease inflammation, increase energy, and promote increased feelings of self esteem.

Nutrition

Springtime is a great time to get a good dose of in-season nutrients from food.  Even though it is dull outside, it can often be a bright time in the grocery store as in-season produce such as berries, brightly- colored fruits and enticing vegetables line the aisles.  The more color you can get in your diet, the more nutrients and antioxidants you can eat to help combat inflammation, increase energy and get you through these last couple weeks before summer starts.

There are also many different herbs and supplements that can help you get through the rainy day blues.  If you feel like you need extra support to help you through the next couple of months, schedule an appointment with our doctors today.

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